Questions about Hypopigmentation after laser hair removal (Photo)

Question

I had 2 sessions of laser hair removal in cheekbones and I got hypopigmentation and now I have some question about it : 1. It could become more noticeable over time ? 2. I could exposure this area to the sun ? 3. There any treatment to that or just the time ? 4. Could I wax the area with hair or at least pluck for there the hair with tweezer ? 5. If I had those patches before it could lead them to be more noticeable and if yes, it permanent ? 6. Laser could lead to little tiny scars?(like acne)

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Hyperpigmentation and inflammation after your laser procedure is common. Skin care will help improve this as well as sun protection.  In general, hyperpigmentation from any type needs a combination approach of peels like cosmelan,  lasers like clear and brilliant and aerolase or laser genesis, radiofrequency like venus viva, and constant skin care and sun protection.  Bimonthly facials with silk peel dermalinfusion is essential to hydrate, exfoliate and infuse vitamins and antioxidants into the skin.   I suggest a formal consultation with an expert in lasers and peels. Best, Dr. Emer.

Laura A. Katz, MD · Answer

It looks like you have a darker skin type, possibly type 5 or 6.  For your skin type, a YAG laser is the most appropriate type for hair removal.  If an Alex laser is used, there is a significant risk of hypopigmentation or even a vitiligo-like appearance which can be permanent.  Appropriate laser hair removal should not result in any scarring.  At Monroe Comprehensive Laser Center, we only use Yag laser for our darker skinned patients because of this.  There is not a truly effective treatment for this skin discoloration, even with subsequent sun exposure. Waxing or plucking hair with tweezers is not usually advised before laser hair removal because those processes remove hair closer to the root bulb and do not leave anything for the laser to "see" to remove.  However, that may be your only option in the now hypopigmented areas if a Yag laser is not available.

Questions about Hypopigmentation after laser hair removal (Photo)

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More Laser Hair Removal Questions

What can I do about hyperpigmantation/tiena versicolor after laser hair removal on my cheekbones? (Photos)

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More Laser Hair Removal Questions

What can I do about hyperpigmantation/tiena versicolor after laser hair removal on my cheekbones? (Photos)

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